The blog discusses remedies that are not common for various ailments. Information on alternative medicine and holistic treatment is provided.

Monday, October 15, 2012

Benefits of Beer for Health

Beer drinking is generally associated with weight gain and pot belly. But you might be surprised to know that drinking beer in moderation has several health benefits. It can make your bones stronger and ward off diabetes. It can also help to prevent certain types of cancers. It is a well known fact that wine is good for the heart. Beer is also equally good for the heart.Reducing the Risk of Heart AttackAlcoholic beverages in general are said to increase the levels of HDL (good cholesterol) and lower LDL levels. Consumption of 12 oz (360 ml) of beer a day by women and 24 oz (720 ml) by men will reduce the chances of heart attack and stroke. According to a study by a research team of the Harvard Medical School, people who have two drinks of alcoholic beverages a day have lower chances of heart attack than non drinkers. People who continue to drink moderately after a heart attack have better chances of recovery than non drinkers.

BeerSource:Wikimedia Commons: Sir James

Bowel FunctionAs beer is a rich source of soluble fiber it can promote healthy bowel movement. It can be said that beer is laxative. It can also slow down digestion and increase the absorption of nutrients by the body Bone DensityBeer contains dietary silicon which helps to strengthen bone density. According to Katherine Tucker of Tufts University and her fellow researchers, moderate beer and wine drinkers have higher bone mineral density (BMD) than non drinkers. Drinking moderate quantities of beer can help to reduce chances of fracture.KidneyDrinking beer helps reduce the chances of kidney stones. Perhaps the higher water content (contains 93% water) of beer helps to keep the kidney hydrated and prevents the formation of stones. Beer also prevents the loss of calcium from the bones which may end up in the form of stones in the kidney. Beer has a diuretic effect on the body. It also dilates the urinary tract making the flushing out of the stones less painful and easier.Increasing Vitamin LevelsDrinking moderate quantities of beer help to increase the levels vitamin B6 in the blood. Beer also contains vitamin B12, folic acid, magnesium, potassium, folate, niacin and phosphorous.Preventing StrokeBeer is rich in anti-oxidants. It can help to prevent blood clots. Beer is said to be more effective then red wine in preventing heart attacks.InsomniaBeer contains nicotinic acid and lactoflavin which can act as a sedative and cure insomnia.Gall StonesBeer not only prevents the formation of kidney stones but also gall stones.Bowel FunctionBeer can promote bowel function as it is a rich source of soluble fiber. It can slow down digestion and increase the absorption of nutrients by the body. Lowering the Risk of DiabetesModerate beer drinkers have lower risk of developing diabetes. The alcohol content in beer increases the insulin sensitivity. This helps to lower the chances of developing diabetes.For Longer LifeAs beer reduces the chances of heart attack, stroke and diabetes moderate beer drinkers live longer.These are some of the benefits of drinking beer